They will cycle through villages, sugar plantations and coastal towns before reaching Trinidad, where they will enjoy an evening of dining and salsa dancing on the beach.

Joanne said they thought it was about time they took up a challenge, after seeing money pouring into the hospice from members of the public who had completed similar feats.

She said: "People do similar things to raise money for the hospice - and it's time for us to do something ourselves.

"We decided to do this challenge because a few of us enjoy cycling, but we have never done anything on this scale before and it is something to work towards."

The women are getting ready for the challenge by regularly cycling and going to the gym, and once a week they meet up to train together.

The bike ride has been organised by Charity Challenge, which also organises other fundraising adventures. They include the Great Wall of China Trek, the Inca Trail in Peru, Kilimanjaro Climb and the Everest Base Camp Trek.

For more information about sponsoring the women, telephone Teesside Hospice Fundraising on 01642 355866.